Just ask BBC Breakfast's business news presenter Steph McGovern. Originally from Middlesbrough, Steph says she gets disparaging remarks not just from parochial southern viewers but even, in the past, from bosses.

She was viewed by some as "too common for telly" and, after one BBC job interview, was told: "I didn't realise people like you were clever".

Tweeters question the Teesider's university education, and one emailer suggested she return to her council estate.

That said, Ms McGovern has admitted having once been a champion Irish dancer.

Much though I admire many things Irish, if she's referring to that business where you keep your arms by your side and flap your legs about, I believe she should resign her post immediately.

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